Gaming is in an awkward transitional phase of its existence. Console systems are quickly reaching the peak of what they are capable of, Nintendo is going for broke playing a game of catch-up to Sony and Microsoft, and dedicated PC gamers are feeling the sting of console-focused developers. Up for grabs is the area of smartphone and tablet-based gaming. As our Internet usage on mobile devices begins to rival our usage on desktops, it’s becoming clearer that gaming on tablets and smartphones should be taken seriously. But being serious sounds boring right now, so let’s have some fun and check out three light hearted apps instead.

Civiballs

Civiballs, by Clickgamer, is one of the very few iOS games that I have completed. It’s a compelling puzzler that combines physics and perfect timing to direct colored balls into corresponding urn-like cups. The game has a boatload of levels that are set in either Roman, Viking or Inca-themed worlds. Each civilization has its own peculiar obstacles that stand between you and your destination.

For me, the most enjoyable part of this game was each level’s “a-ha” moment. This is the moment when, after trying to successfully time my breaking of the balls’ chains, I finally realize the correct order and timing required. Watching balls roll around the screen may not sound like the most enjoyable way to spend 15 minutes, but when your score is dependant on how fast you can complete the goals and how many stars you can collect in the process, the game becomes a puzzler fanatic’s dream.

If find yourself itching for a puzzler app, at 99 cents, Civiballs is one of the best in the app store. Pick it up and see if, like me, you couldn’t resist playing it whenever possible.